Psychiatric oncology: Cancer in mind.
Indian J Psychiatry. 2012 Apr;54(2):111-8.
Abstract
Psychosocial
oncology is an upcoming area of interest, which deals with numerous
psychiatric, psychological, and social aspects of malignancies.
Psychiatric oncology relates to some of the common psychological and
emotional problems encountered in persons with malignancy and their
formal and informal caregivers. This oration will discuss the importance
of this field of Consultation Liaison Psychiatry, with a focus on the
research and practice in the Indian setting. This presentation will also
share the findings and researches of the presenter. All these range
from studies on cancer pain and palliative
care, screening for psychiatric morbidity, quality of life,
communication skills for health professionals in breaking bad news and
handling difficult questions, and counseling. The findings on researches
on somatization and illness behavior in cancer patients would highlight newer challenges in this field. Caregivers of persons with cancer
are as important as the patient, but usually ignored. The stress,
strain, burden, positive emotions, and coping in the context of care
giving for persons with cancer
are being increasingly realized. Professional caregivers should be
aware of caregiver difficulties and support them through their ordeal.
Lastly, the importance of dealing with staff stress and burnout among
health professionals looking after families with cancer patients and survivors will be emphasized.
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